Slideshare uses cookies to improve functionality and performance, and to provide you with relevant advertising. If you continue browsing the site, you agree to the use of cookies on this website. See our User Agreement and Privacy Policy.

Slideshare uses cookies to improve functionality and performance, and to provide you with relevant advertising. If you continue browsing the site, you agree to the use of cookies on this website. See our Privacy Policy and User Agreement for details.

23.
The Petersons are
having a salad for
lunch today.
There’s no “of,” so
there’s no apostrophe.

24.
The Petersons’ dining
room overlooks a lovely
garden.
“dining room of the
Petersons” – yes, you
need an apostrophe.
That “of” gives it away.

25.
Try these yourself. (Be sure to look for
an “of” idea!)
The Smiths are in Honolulu.
The Holders alarm system isn’t working.
The Chans asked me to check on their
house.
The Farrells car was stolen.

26.
The Smiths are in Honolulu.
The Holders’ alarm system isn’t
working.
The Chans asked me to check on their
house.
The Farrells’ car was stolen.
Here are the answers:

27.
How did you do?
The Smiths are in Honolulu. (no “of”)
The Holders’ alarm system isn’t
working. (alarm system of the Holders)
The Chans asked me to check on their
house. (no “of”)
The Farrells’ car was stolen. (car of the
Farrells)

28.
Now let’s look at one more issue
related to apostrophes: Possessive
pronouns.

37.
You can find a free preview of my book at
Amazon.com:
“A useful resource for both
students and professionals.”
- Jena L. Hawk, Ph.D.,
Mississippi Gulf Coast
Community College
"Personable and
readable...Jean knows her
subject forwards and
backwards.”
- Adair Lara, author of Hold Me
Close, Let Me Go